Christmas in Mexico is primarily celebrated as a religious holiday in traditional homes and rural areas. Families observe a nine-day period of prayer and reflection before December 24th, known as Noche Buena or Holy Night. Homes are decorated with trees and streets are lit up. Children play with piñatas and eat candies, oranges, and apples. The Christmas season in Mexico runs from December 12th through January 6th, with December 25th being the main gift-giving day to commemorate the birth of Christ.